Deep neck abscess (retropharyngeal or parapharyngeal)

Overview

Infections from the throat or teeth can spread into deep neck spaces.

Swelling can push on the airway.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Trouble swallowing or breathing
• Drooling
• Stiff, painful neck
• Neck pain or stiffness

Less common

• Fever

Look up a symptom: Fever

When to get medical care

Causes

Infection.

Does it spread or run in families?

• The illness itself usually isn't passed to others, but some germs that cause it can spread.
• Washing hands often helps.

Who is more likely to get it

• Children

Possible complications

• Sepsis: Infection spreading into the blood

Diagnosis

This is diagnosed in the emergency room or hospital.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• CT:

Treatment

Emergency care is needed. While waiting for help:

Self-care

• Go to the ER

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

• Treat throat and dental infections

Which doctor treats this

• Emergency doctors treat it first, in the ER.
• They may send you to an infectious disease specialist, for hard-to-treat infections.

Back to school, work, or sports

• Recovery time varies. Ask your care team when you can drive, lift, work, and exercise.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Children under 5: Retropharyngeal type more common.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Some infections can pass to the baby during pregnancy or birth. Tell your provider if you've been exposed.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

For caregivers

• Go to visits when you can and take notes.
• Keep a list of medicines, allergies, and doctors in one place.
• Learn the warning signs that need fast care.
• Learn CPR. Many hospitals and the Red Cross offer classes.
• Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Fast treatment works well.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• What follow-up care do I need?
• How can I prevent this from happening again?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Deep neck abscess (retropharyngeal or parapharyngeal)